altyn emel national park
Altyn-Emel National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kazakhstan, is renowned for its diverse desert landscapes, including the vibrant Aktau Mountains and the unique Singing Dune, which emits a haunting sound when winds blow. Established in 1996, the park protects rare species like the kulan, Przewalski’s horse, and endangered black stork, alongside ancient archaeological sites such as the Besshatyr Burial Mounds from the 7th-6th centuries BC. Its inclusion in the "Cold Winter Deserts of Turan" nomination highlights its ecological and cultural significance, making it a vital hub for conservation and ecotourism.